George Street (39–41) – update

Hastings Borough Council recognises the strength of local feeling about the condition of the site at 39–41 George Street, which sits in a prominent location in the Old Town. 

The council has made it clear to the developer that the prolonged delay in progressing the planning permission and associated legal agreement is unacceptable.  

The leader of the council, senior officers and our borough solicitor have met and agreed a clear way forward that protects the public interest and ensures the developer is held to account. 

Following this, the developer has confirmed in writing that they will: 

• Improve the appearance of the site immediately, including removing vegetation and graffiti and upgrading the hoarding with visualisations of the proposed development in discussion with local traders.
• Begin work on site from May 2026, subject to permissions being in place.
• Work to a single, final time extension for concluding the necessary legal agreement by 1 May 2026. 

Cllr Glenn Haffenden, leader of the council, said: “Residents and businesses are right to be frustrated by how long this has dragged on, especially given the site’s location. We have been very clear with the developer: there is one final opportunity to put this right, with firm deadlines. We will keep pressure on to ensure progress is made and that the site is improved while the remaining requirements are finalised.” 

Cllr Julia Hilton, ward councillor for Old Hastings and deputy leader of the council, added: “I have been chasing progress on this site for some time, so I welcome the confirmation that immediate steps will now be taken to clean up the site and improve its appearance. Given how long residents and traders have had to wait, it is important that these commitments are delivered without any further delay, and I will continue to monitor this closely.” 

A meeting on site has also been offered to ensure expectations are clear and that improvements to the site are implemented without delay. 

The council will continue to monitor progress closely. If the agreed milestones are not met, the application will be determined on the basis of the information available at that time, which could include refusal.